Drain maintenance

May 26, 2026, 06:08 AM

400m

Drain maintenance

Years ago I had a plumber recommend an enzyme cleaner. I think it was a powder you mix with water. I’ve long since forgotten what he suggested. I’m pretty sure he recommended a monthly regiment just to keep ahead of build up.

Does anyone here use that for maintenance? What brands do you recommend?

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May 26, 2026, 07:09 AM

hooch

We've had to snake out our drain every 2 or 3 years until I started putting Patriot Chemicals foaming root killer ten years ago, haven't had to touch it since. It's not cheap but works great, I usually buy the twenty pound pale off Ebay last me a couple of years.

May 26, 2026, 07:27 AM

chellim1

quote:
Patriot Chemicals foaming root killer ten years ago, haven't had to touch it since.

I use a product called RootX, probably similar.

https://rootx.com/

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May 26, 2026, 08:31 AM

220-9er

I boil water most mornings for my breakfast and have been adding some so I can pour the extra down my kitchen drains.
Never had any issues there and it has to at least disinfect whatever it touches and put a dent in any grease.

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May 26, 2026, 09:00 AM

Glynn863

I have used "Thrift", which is a lye-based powder, activated by hot water. Amazon sells it, and I'm sure there are other sources. It has worked well enough on bathroom sinks, tub / shower drains, and kitchen drains, AFTER I "snaked" a hardened clog that was probably left over from the previous homeowners.

May 26, 2026, 09:47 AM

6guns

^^^ I use Thrift too and like it a lot.

As 220-9er says, hot water often does wonders too.

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May 26, 2026, 03:02 PM

GT-40DOC

I have been using Instant Power drain maintainer that I get at Home Depot. It is an enzyme cleaner that I use once a month. It was recommended by Roto Rooter, and since I started using it(a number of years ago), I have not had to call them. Quick and easy.....and, so far, does it's job as advertised.

May 27, 2026, 08:56 AM

Glynn863

quote:
Originally posted by 400m:
Is the Thrift and GreaseX for maintenance or just clogs?

Thrift has worked for me on small clogs, particularly on various bathroom drains. I do a small maintenance dose about every 3 to 6 months on all my drains now as well.

May 27, 2026, 11:00 AM

Dzozer

I've had pretty good luck with Green Gobbler Drain Cleaner & Deodorizer Enzyme Sticks.

LINK